Introduction
Paneer is the heart of Indian cuisine, offering a perfect blend of taste, texture, and nutrition. Whether you crave a creamy curry, a smoky appetizer, or a comforting home-style dish, paneer dishes never disappoint. In this guide, we unveil five of the most famous paneer recipes, each crafted to perfection with step-by-step instructions.
Why Paneer? High in protein, calcium, and healthy fats, paneer is a staple in Indian households and an excellent choice for vegetarians. Its versatility allows it to absorb flavors beautifully, making it a key ingredient in countless delicious dishes.
1. Paneer Butter Masala – A Restaurant Classic
Why You’ll Love It
A rich, buttery tomato-based curry with melt-in-the-mouth paneer cubes, Paneer Butter Masala is the undisputed star of Indian cuisine.
Portion: Serves 3-4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fats: 24g
Ingredients
200g paneer (cubed)
2 large tomatoes (pureed)
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup fresh cream
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp red chilli powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
Heat butter in a pan, sauté onions until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste, followed by tomato puree. Cook until oil separates.
Stir in red chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt.
Pour in fresh cream, mix well, and gently add paneer cubes.
Finish with crushed kasuri methi, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Serve hot with naan or jeera rice.
2. Shahi Paneer – A Royal Mughlai Delight
Why You’ll Love It
Creamy, nutty, and mildly spiced, Shahi Paneer embodies the richness of Mughlai cuisine.
Portion: Serves 3-4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving):
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fats: 26g
Ingredients
200g paneer (cubed)
1/2 cup cashew paste
2 tbsp fresh cream
2 large tomatoes (pureed)
1 onion (finely chopped)
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp ghee or butter
Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
Heat ghee in a pan, sauté onions, then add ginger-garlic paste.
Stir in tomato puree, and cashew paste, and cook until thickened.
Add cream, turmeric, garam masala, and salt.
Pour in milk, mix well, and gently add paneer cubes.
Simmer for a few minutes and serve with paratha or basmati rice.
3. Paneer Tikka – The Ultimate Tandoori Starter
Why You’ll Love It
A smoky, spiced, and perfectly grilled appetizer, Paneer Tikka is a crowd-pleaser at every gathering.
Portion: Serves 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes + 1-hour marination
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fats: 18g
Ingredients
200g paneer (cubed)
1/2 cup thick yoghurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp red chilli powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tbsp mustard oil
Salt to taste
Skewers for grilling
Step-by-Step Recipe
Whisk together, spices, mustard oil, and lemon juice.
Coat paneer cubes in the marinade and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Thread paneer onto skewers and grill in a tandoor or oven at 200°C for 15 minutes.
Serve with mint chutney and onion rings.
📢 Which Paneer Dish Will You Try First?
Now that you have five iconic paneer recipes, it’s time to recreate them in your kitchen! Which one will you try first? Comment below and share this guide with fellow food lovers!
FAQs
Q1: How to keep paneer soft in curries?
A: Soak paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before adding it to the curry to maintain its softness.
Q2: Can I make paneer at home?
A: Yes! Boil 1 litre of milk, add 2 tbsp lemon juice, and strain the curds. Press for 1 hour and enjoy fresh homemade paneer.
Q3: What is the healthiest way to eat paneer?
A: Grilled or raw paneer retains protein without extra oil, making it the healthiest option.
Q4: Can paneer dishes be frozen?
A: Yes, store paneer curries in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
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